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Debunking Common Myths About Acid Reflux

Acid reflux affects about 20 million people in the United States. San Antonio, TX, is among the states with many acid reflux treatment cases. The condition usually emerges from a malfunctioning valve at the top of the stomach. The acid makes its way back up to the esophagus, leading to pain and discomfort. Book an appointment with the finest center for acid reflux in San Antonio. Acid reflux is often treatable, with the more severe cases requiring surgery to repair the sphincters. However, myths and misconceptions come in seeking the proper treatment. Let’s debunk some of them.

Acid Reflux is Heart Related

Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux, but it’s not what you think. The stigma exists because when the esophagus becomes irritated, it causes burning in the chest area, which can feel like heart attacks. 

It has become so common to link acid reflux with heart-related problems, that many people go undiagnosed for years before they learn other factors are involved. You don’t have to suffer any longer, and neither do your loved ones.

Acid Reflux is a Milk Problem

There aren’t a lot of dairy products in my diet, and I’m not lactose intolerant, but whenever I have too much cow’s milk or cheese, my acid reflux flares up badly. Since it’s been so bad lately, I’ve been thinking about going dairy-free to keep my symptoms under control.

Soda is Good for Acid Reflux

It’s not true that soda and other sugary drinks can help with acid reflux. They’re bad for the problem because the sugar only fuels the fire. The carbonation also makes it worse by causing bloating and giving you gas. Carbonated beverages are best avoided if you have heartburn or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

Acid Reflux Kills Bad Breath

Heartburn can cause bad breath because of the acid it leaves in your mouth. This often leads people to believe that acid reflux is the enemy when really, it’s just a symptom. While you’re looking for ways to treat or cure bad breath caused by heartburn, do some research about what’s causing your heartburn. If you keep getting flare ups after eating certain foods, leave them out of your diet and find alternatives.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Always Leads to Cancer

It’s a scary diagnosis when you get told that you have GERD, and everyone starts warning you about how it could lead to cancer. The thing is, everyone tends to forget that the disease only presents a risk if left untreated and unmanaged. That’s why it’s so important to learn about what causes acid reflux and how you can treat it before you ignore the symptoms even more than you already do.

Acid Reflux Doesn’t Cause Weight Gain

Heartburn can cause bloating because of gas accumulating in your stomach, causing swelling and discomfort. Since people tend to avoid eating or drinking anything when they experience heartburn, they also don’t take in enough nutrients, which leaves them feeling tired and weak. If heartburn keeps you from eating correctly, you might start to see a change in your weight.

Acid reflux is a common occurrence, but it comes with many myths and misconceptions. The biggest myth about acid reflux is that it’s heart-related. Heartburn can be treatable, and the more severe cases may require surgery to repair sphincters. Seek guidance from an acid reflux specialist.